The meaning of “ὄνομα”
Understanding ónoma reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
called, (+ sur-)name(-d). - a "name" (literally or figuratively) (authority, character)
ὄνομα
called, (+ sur-)name(-d). - a "name" (literally or figuratively) (authority, character)
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 18:5 | “And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.” Word: ὄνομα (ónoma) | |
| John 14:26 | “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” Word: ὄνομα (ónoma) | |
| 1 Corinthians 1:15 | “Lest any should say that I had baptized in mine own name.” Word: ὄνομα (ónoma) | |
| Colossians 3:17 | “And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.” Word: ὄνομα (ónoma) | |
| 2 Timothy 2:19 | “Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.” Word: ὄνομα (ónoma) |
Theological Word Study: Name
Old Testament Usage
Meaning: Name, reputation
The Hebrew shem (שֵׁם) means name—representing character, authority, and reputation. God's name is holy (Leviticus 20:3), and He promised Abraham 'I will make thy name great' (Genesis 12:2).
New Testament Usage
Meaning: Name, authority
The Greek onoma (ὄνομα) denotes name or authority. At Jesus' name 'every knee should bow' (Philippians 2:10), and 'there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved' (Acts 4:12).